At Australian Red Cross we’re very excited to be launching the Youth in Emergencies Development Program.

As you may recall from our communication last year, Australian Red Cross leading this project, funded under the Disaster Risk Reduction Grants Program funded by the Australian Government and the South Australian Government, and in partnership with the Country Fire Service SA, the Commissioner for Children and Young People and The Duke of Edinburgh International Award, embarked on a co-design journey to create the Youth in Emergencies Development Program (YEDP).

We had a great time facilitating co-design workshops with young people across South Australia, and with their valuable input we’ve built a program tailored to the wants and needs of young people.

Designed by young people for young people, this program offers a unique opportunity to learn about the natural hazards we face due to our changing climate, and how to take steps to limit their exposure to them.  More information about the content can be found here.

The program will teach young people how to prepare for emergencies, become leaders across the communities they’re part of, and about the varied ways diverse communities are impacted by emergencies and disasters.  We’ll also make opportunities for them to have a say in decisions that impact them.

While learning all this, the participants will be working towards The Duke of Edinburgh International Bronze Award, worth 10 SACE points.

This is a program designed for young people to:

• Gain an International Award
• Develop important life skills
• Meet new people
• Accelerate job opportunities
• Learn how to be prepared for emergencies

The YEDP is open to all students enrolled in years 9-12 living in South Australia, and we’re offering generous financial support so that everyone can apply.